Pahalgam is a well-known health resort in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. It is located in the district of Anantnag's northeast, among towering hills covered in evergreen trees. Its cold, refreshing, and pleasant atmosphere, as well as the musical flow of Lidder Nallah, draw travellers from both within and beyond the country. It's also a vital stopover point on the road to the holy Amar Nath Ji Cave, which is 72 kilometres from the d...
Pahalgam is a well-known health resort in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. It is located in the district of Anantnag's northeast, among towering hills covered in evergreen trees. Its cold, refreshing, and pleasant atmosphere, as well as the musical flow of Lidder Nallah, draw travellers from both within and beyond the country. It's also a vital stopover point on the road to the holy Amar Nath Ji Cave, which is 72 kilometres from the district headquarters.
HISTORY OF PAHALGAM
The origins of Pahalgam are unknown.Mughal monarchs governed this region during the medieval period. It later became a part of the Kashmir Kingdom, which was ruled by local Hindu princes. Even during the British reign, this princely state remained autonomous, eventually merging with independent India.
THINGS TO DO IN PAHALGAM
• Skiing - Skiing is one of Pahalgam's most popular activities. Pahalgam, after Gulmarg, is considered the second finest skiing resort in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. The Aru Valley is Pahalgam's most popular skiing destination. The valley's picturesque slopes are suitable for skiers from all over the world.
• Camping - Camping in the Aru Valley is a great way to enjoy Pahalgam's natural beauty. The beauty and quiet environment of the site allow the nature lover to relax. Horseback riding, fishing, trekking, and other activities are available at this location. Tourists can dine in surrounding restaurants and sample some delectable fare.
• Trout Fishing - Fishing is another interesting alternative for your Pahalgam visit. From April to October, the fishing season is at its peak. The Lidder River has a number of tributaries and streams that provide excellent brown and rainbow trout fishing.
• Zorbing - The tranquil meadow of Baisaran is one of the most gorgeous sites near Pahalgam. The calm meadow is surrounded by lush forests and is about 6 kilometres from Pahalgam. The location includes Zorbing, a popular tourist activity that is both enjoyable and exhilarating. It is one of the most exciting outdoor activities in Pahalgam, and visitors like participating in it.
• River Rafting - Pahalgam river rafting is one of the most exciting adventure sports. The best thing is that rafting in Pahalgam's Lidder River is also suitable for beginners. The ever-effervescent Zanskar River also has a bubbly section that provides a thrilling rafting experience for guests seeking an adrenaline rush.
BEST TIME TO VISIT PAHALGAM
• Summer - Summer is the busiest season in Pahalgam, as it attracts the most visitors. The weather is pleasantly crisp and lovely, with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 25°C. The Amarnath Yatra starts at the end of the summer, so you have time to join this spiritual pilgrimage.
• Monsoon - The monsoon in Pahalgam is lovely, with gentle showers that rejuvenate the entire area. The soft rain brings life to the lush, beautiful valley. The temperature ranges from 18 to 30 degrees Celsius. The monsoon in Pahalgam is the greatest season to try adventure sports because the weather is suitable for outdoor activities.
• Winter - Winters in Pahalgam are cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from 1 to 12 degrees Celsius. Pahalgam's favourite winter activities include skiing, sledding, and rafting.
PLACES TO VISIT IN PAHALGAM
• Betaab Valley - The Lidder River flows right through Betaab Valley, which is surrounded by tall deodar trees and pine forests. It was named after the Bollywood film Betaab, which starred Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh and was filmed here.
• Aru Valley - Aru Valley, about 11 kilometres from Pahalgam, is the starting point for treks to the Kolahoi Glacier and the Tarsar-Marsar Lake. Aru is recognised for its gorgeous meadows and outdoor activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and trekking.
• Lidder River - The Kolahoi glacier feeds the Lidder River, a 73-kilometer-long glacial river. Lidder River, which flows through the valleys of Pahalgam, is a charming picnic place. White river rafting, angling, horseback riding, and fishing are some of the other adventure sports available.
• Chadanwari - The famed Amarnath Yatra begins in Chandanwari, which is 15 kilometres from Pahalgam. Snow sledding on a snow bridge is also a popular activity. Chandanwari is a beautiful spot for a picnic with your family, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the Lidder River running through it.
• Kolahoi Glacier - Kolahoi Glacier is a hanging glacier that hangs over the Lidder River and offers breathtaking vistas. While trekking is the only way to get to this glacier, you can hire ponies or horses for parts of the expedition.
• Mammal Temple - Mammal Temple, an old Shiva temple along the Lidder River, is a must-see for anyone seeking heavenly favours. The temple, which is located in a small hamlet about a mile from Pahalgam and dates back to 400CE, is frequented by devotees all year because of its religious significance.
HOW TO REACH PAHALGAM
• By Train - The nearest train stations to Pahalgam are Udhampur and Jammu. Pahalgam is 217 kilometres away from Udhampur, while Jammu is 285 kilometres away
• By Road - Pahalgam has a decent road network that connects it to Jammu and Srinagar. From Jammu, Srinagar, and Anantnag, state and private bus services are available. Pahalgam can also be reached by taxi.
• By Air - The nearest international airport to Pahalgam is Srinagar International Airport, which is 96 kilometres away.